Lambert-St Louis Airport (STL) Flights & Information

St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) is a medium-size gateway and one of the most important airports in the midwestern US. The airport is named after aviation pioneer Albert Bond Lambert, a prominent St. Louis aviator and photographer who learned to fly with the Wright Brothers, served in the US Army during World War I and was instrumental in promoting aviation in the St. Louis area.

Designed in 1956 by renowned Japanese-American architect Minoru Yamasaki – who also designed the original World Trade Center – the 4-domed main terminal was once called the "Grand Central of the Air.” Today, STL serves more than 15 million passengers annually and connects the Midwest to both domestic and international destinations. This expert guide will help you make the most of your time here.

Airport overview

Currently, STL has 2 main terminals – Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 retains Yamasaki's 4-domed rooftop architecture and is the larger of the two terminals, housing concourses A and C. It operates domestic flights only, while Terminal 2 serves international flights in a modern design housing Concourse E. While Terminals 1 and 2 are not connected, you can take the free shuttle between them.

Although its status as a major hub has decreased over the decades, STL currently offers service from 15 airlines. Southwest Airlines is the predominant carrier at STL, accounting for the majority of its annual passenger traffic. STL also offers service from all 3 major US carriers – American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines – and international carriers Air Canada and Lufthansa.

Getting to and from STL by public transportation

You have many options to get to and from St. Louis Lambert International Airport. The MetroLink light rail system offers a convenient and economical option with direct connections to various parts of the city and surrounding areas. There’s a station at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 and I recommend this option if you have minimal luggage and prefer to avoid traffic.

Additionally, the MetroBus network complements the light rail, offering extended connectivity to regions not directly served by MetroLink. A 2-hour metro pass from STL is slightly more expensive than the bus fare, but both are cheap. There are 1-day, weekly, monthly and 10-ride passes available for bundled savings – look into these if you’re staying for a while.

Since many US cities lack rail service, especially to airports, I love that St. Louis has the MetroLink. It takes approximately 40 minutes to travel from the airport to downtown St. Louis and is an affordable option compared to taxis and ridesharing. STL Airport also has a Greyhound Bus station if you’re heading somewhere further than the city.

Getting to and from the airport by car

If you prefer more direct and flexible transportation, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available at designated pickup areas at both STL terminals. These are also helpful if you’re carrying too much luggage for public transportation.

Traditional taxi services are also stationed at the airport, but they’re often a bit more expensive here. And if you want your own vehicle for your stay, 8 car rental companies – including top-known agencies like Hertz, Avis and Enterprise – operate from STL. You’ll need to take a free shuttle from baggage claim to the rental car locations but it’s not far.

Airport parking

The airport has several parking options, including Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 garages and 5 long-term parking lots. As always. the long-term parking lots offer lower daily rates than the short-term lots at the terminals, but you’re welcome to park overnight at these, too – it’ll cost you, though. If you’re going to be parking at STL often, you can also get reserved parking in Terminal 2 for a monthly fee.

Security lines at STL

Navigating the security lines at STL is relatively straightforward, although the time it takes can vary depending on several factors – time of day, season and the specific terminal can all have an impact. On average, you can expect security screening to take no more than 5 to 10 minutes during off-peak times.

During peak travel periods, such as early mornings, holidays or major events in the city, wait times can extend to 15 minutes or more. I recommend checking real-time security wait times online or on the TSA mobile app before heading to the airport. To expedite the process, you can also use CLEAR and TSA PreCheck at STL if you’re a member of either (or both).

STL dining options

STL houses more than 30 dining options distributed across both terminals. In Terminal 1, the Kingside Diner and Vino Volo offer travelers a more upscale dining experience. Dunkin', Great Ways Grill and Pizza Studio provide light fare and quick-service food options if you’re looking for a casual bite. I love local favorite Mike Shannon's Grill – named after the beloved St. Louis Cardinals broadcaster – for classic American with a Missouri twist.

Terminal 2 has a variety of dining venues like The Pasta House, which serves Italian American dishes, and Schlafly Beer, a local microbrewery that offers a wide range of craft beers alongside pub food favorites. For a quick snack or a light meal, head to Shake Shack, Auntie Anne’s, The Great American Bagel Bakery or STL Brewmasters Tap Room. Several Starbucks locations can be found at both terminals.

Airport lounges

STL has 4 lounges, offering comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, workspaces and free Wi-Fi. In Terminal 1, you can find the American Airlines Admirals Club and the USO Lounge. Terminal 2 is home to another USO Lounge and the Wingtips Lounge.

The Admirals Club is exclusive to American Airlines passengers and elite members while the Wingtips Lounge can be accessed with a day pass or through certain credit card memberships and lounge networks like Priority Pass. The 2 USO lounges are only available to active members of the military and their accompanied families.

Favorite shopping

STL offers more than 20 retail shops ranging from fashion outlets and newsstands to candy stores and souvenir shops. Among my favorite spots are Sweet Indulgences and Natalie’s Candy Jar, where I enjoy browsing the selection of chocolate treats that are far superior to any snacks you'll find on the plane.

The familiar Hudson News is another of my preferred spots and there are a dozen locations scattered throughout the airport. At Hudson News, I buy beverages, snacks and sometimes magazines to make my flight more enjoyable. I also like to visit Discover St. Louis and Kids Works for unique souvenirs and toys to bring back to my children.

Things to do during a layover

Aside from dining, lounges and shopping, if you have an extended layover of around 8 hours or more at STL, consider taking the MetroLink light rail to downtown St. Louis. The journey from the airport to the 8th & Pine Station lasts around 40 minutes. After a 10-minute walk, you’ll arrive at the Gateway Arch.

While not required, I recommend booking advance tickets to the structure, but it’s a sight to behold even if you don’t go in. Other notable attractions in downtown St. Louis include the City Museum, Griot Museum of Black History and the St. Louis Aquarium. Be aware, however, that Lambert Airport does not provide luggage storage facilities, so this option might not be feasible if you have substantial carry-on.

Wi-Fi and other services at the airport

STL offers free Wi-Fi access for 4 hours throughout both terminals. Additionally, the airport features charging stations and business centers. Luggage carts can be rented and are located in the baggage claims area of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 as well as in the departures section of Terminal 1.

Additionally, the airport is home to a tourism and visitor information booth operated by Explore St. Louis, a US Bank branch, ADA-compliant lactation suites for nursing mothers, 2 interfaith chapels and service animal relief areas.

If you’re traveling with kids, I recommend exploring the transportation-themed St. Louis International Playport from Magic House, St. Louis Children's Museum. It features a mini airplane, an air traffic control tower and a pint-sized replica of the MetroLink light rail train.